From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed the arrest of five out of 12 fleeing inmates who escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, in the early hours of Monday, 24 March 2025.
In a statement, the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abubakar Umar, said that during the incident, some inmates in a section of the facility manipulated the padlocks, leading to the escape of 12 inmates.
Upon receiving reports of the attack, the Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, in collaboration with heads of sister security agencies, including the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor of Kogi State, immediately mobilised to the facility. Personnel were deployed to secure the facility, restore order, and initiate a manhunt for the escapees.
“As of this moment, five of the fleeing inmates have been recaptured, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining inmates and bring them to justice,” he said.
Umar noted that the Acting Controller General of Corrections has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape of the inmates.
Additionally, a security audit is being conducted across all correctional facilities nationwide to prevent future occurrences. The service has urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that may assist in the recapture of those still at large.
“Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency. The service assures Nigerians that the safety of custodial centres remains a top priority, and measures are being reinforced to strengthen security across all facilities. The NCoS remains committed to ensuring that correctional facilities fulfil their mandate of safe custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates,” the public relations officer said.